WHAT IS A CFP®? A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER, or CFP®, certification means a financial advisor has successfully completed a rigorous training program followed by a comprehensive 6-hour exam administered in accordance with the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Board of Standards. Professionals who are awarded this accreditation demonstrate skill in analyzing situations and developing personalized long-term financial strategies. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER in the U.S.